By Amy Quesenberry
Special to the Turnagain Times

Vertical Challenge

Show the competition what you’re made of during the 3rd Annual Climb-a-thon endurance event on Sep. 11. Participants will walk, hike and run up the North Face trail and ride the Tram down as many times as possible from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The top finishers last year climbed over 20,000 vertical feet in one day, equivalent to that of climbing Denali in just 10 hours. Entry fee includes an event t-shirt. This event is hosted by Alaska Mountain Runners.

More details online: alyeskaresort.com

Costco Gift Cards

Do you like the idea of saving 20 percent every time you have a beer at the Sitzmark or buy a lift ticket? Alyeska is currently running a gift card promotion at Costco for two $50 gift cards that can be applied towards any purchase at the resort with no restrictions or expiration dates. The cost of the gift cards for Costco members is $79.99. The gift cards will be available at both Anchorage Costco locations (Dimond and DeBarr) until Sept. 15.

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is so much fun that we’ve expanded it over two weekends this year. Sept. 24 and 25 will feature traditional Bavarian food and festivities including full polka band, Spaten beer and authentic German delicacies. October 1 and 2 will showcase local breweries and live music with Nervis Rex and Rebel Blues. The event will run from 6:00 p.m. to midnight both weekends. Admission includes a filled stein of beer for adults, while supplies last. Check online for room packages to avoid driving home after a night of celebrating.

Season Passes on Sale

If you plan on buying a season pass this winter, you might as well buy now and save before pre-season pricing ends on Oct. 31. The Perfect Family Discount allows you to get half price on up to two kids when you buy an adult pass at full price. For those of you without kids, save money when you buy two or more passes at the same time with our Buddy Discount. Purchase your pass on-line, by visiting the Tram Ticket Office or by calling 754-2275. Pick your pass up now and skip the lines later in the season.

Alyeska Mystery Train

Alyeska Resort and the Alaska Railroad have partnered once again to present the “Alyeska Mystery Train” event on Oct. 30. Become a part of the drama in a themed murder mystery that begins on the train and concludes at The Hotel Alyeska. To book a ride on the Mystery Train, go to AlaskaRailroad.com or call 265-2494. If who-dunnits aren’t your thing, dance to live music with Super FreakQuency at the Daylodge Halloween party on October 30. Doors open at 10 p.m. and admission is $10. Age 21 and over please.

Spa Autumn Specials

The Spa at Alyeska is running a Fall Special when you book any two treatments in the same day (over $99) Monday through Thursday between 9/15 and 11/15, you will receive 15 percent off (subject to availability). Another great fall value is the Alyeska Express Spa Package, which includes a mini-massage, body scrub, manicure and pedicure polish change. The 90-minute treatment costs $149. Call 754-2550 for reservations.